Preparing for Your Wedding Liturgy

Frequently Asked Questions

Am I limited to a single vocalist or instrumentalist?
Not at all. As a matter of fact, there are several combinations of musicians that can be called upon to enhance the celebration. These include more traditional vocal options like a duet, quartet or chamber choir, or instrumental combinations like a pair of trumpets and timpani, a string quartet or brass ensemble. You might also desire a contemporary ensemble featuring vocalists, guitars, piano and synthesizer, drums and wind instruments like flute and oboe.
I have a friend or relative who sings or plays an instrument. Can they be a part of the liturgy?
Certainly! Your friend or relative is welcome to be a part of your wedding liturgy if you so wish. We will be happy to work with them. The cantoring of the Mass parts and organ playing are always done by the parish staff. Your friend or relative may sing a vocal solo or play an instrumental piece at select times during the liturgy such as Communion, the Sign of Peace or the dedication to the Blessed Mother. Please ask us about this option if it applies, but do keep in mind that this allowance is made available for friends or relatives only. Professional musicians not associated with Queen of All Saints are not permitted to be hired for the wedding.
What should I think about when selecting vocal pieces?
The texts of vocal pieces for your wedding should reflect the thoughts and feelings of the bride and groom in their spirituality and faith. Texts must be sacred in nature; ideally they will be based on scripture or make direct mention of the couple’s relationship with God. Secular songs which may speak of love but not in a religious sense, such as popular love songs, are not permitted and are best reserved for use at the reception.
We have a CD recording of a song. Can it be played at the liturgy?
Music plays an important role in enhancing the active, “in-the-present” nature of the worship service. In as much as we use readers to proclaim the scriptures, and not taped recordings of “great” orators, and real materials to enhance the environment, such as real candles and cut flowers instead of electric bulbs and artificial floral arrangements, we believe the music used in the liturgy must also be presented live, and therefore the playing of taped music is not allowed. However, every effort will be made to incorporate this piece into the liturgy.